Mangrove snapper rank high among Florida’s saltwater game fish, renowned for their abundance and accessibility. These fish can be caught right near the shore, are diverse in their bait preferences, and are delicious on the plate!
For anyone looking to introduce children to the joys of fishing, mangrove snapper offer an excellent starting point. Their light tackle action also keeps seasoned anglers coming back for more. Whether you’re a beginner or a fishing pro, the thrill of reeling in more mangrove snapper is something everyone can appreciate. Here’s how you can increase your success on the water.
Where to Find Mangrove Snapper
One of the best aspects of targeting mangrove snapper is their wide distribution across various habitats. We can simplify fishing for these fish into two main categories: open water and shore areas. Below is a brief overview of effective tactics for catching mangrove snapper compared to other Florida snapper varieties.
In open water, mangrove snapper can be found around patch reefs, rock piles, bridge pylons, and shallow wrecks. In fact, throughout much of Florida, these fish are often associated with nearly any shallow water structure. When it comes to coastal areas, common habitats include mangrove roots, islands, channels on the flats, as well as docks, jetties, and sea walls.
Generally, the fundamentals for catching mangrove snapper remain consistent across different habitats. Chumming can be particularly effective, and it’s best to use a leader that’s light enough to be unnoticed. However, do keep in mind that large snapper in shallow waters—especially around structures—can be challenging due to their tendency to get tangled up.
Explore these techniques for targeting snapper and other varieties of reef fish.
Brent Schirmer
Chumming for Mangrove Snapper
Chumming is a tried and true method for targeting snapper and other reef species. There are various techniques you can apply when chumming for mangrove snapper, and your approach can be tailored depending on where you locate the fish. Below are some practical tips to enhance your chumming strategy for multiple fishing scenarios.
The first two techniques are particularly effective for catching mangrove snapper in open water, and they can be combined using the same rigs and equipment.
Frozen Chum Block and Bag
Utilizing a frozen chum block is perhaps the most popular and straightforward method. Simply place a frozen chum block inside a chum bag, hang it over the side of your boat, and let the thawing chum drift toward your target structure.
It’s advisable to position your boat upcurrent of the chosen structure. As the block thaws, the bits of chum will drift down enticingly to the snapper below. To hasten the process, give the bag a gentle shake to dislodge more pieces. With any luck, you’ll soon see those mangrove snapper rising from the depths, following the chum trail. Here are additional tips for optimizing your use of chum for improved catches.
Fresh Chum
A second, very effective chumming technique involves catching herring or pilchards with a cast net. It’s advisable to keep several alive in a live well for bait, but for chumming, having plenty of dead baits will be essential.
Chop fresh dead pilchards into thirds or quarters. Position your boat upcurrent of the target structure and anchor it securely to maintain your position.
Every 20 seconds to two minutes, toss a handful of these chunks into the water; you might start with more frequent tosses and then slow down as the fish respond. Allow the chunks to drift back toward your targeted spot.
If the snapper are in the area, they’ll likely begin to respond after a few handfuls. Keep an eye on the sizes of the fish you’re seeing. Be sure to gauge whether there are keepers present before you use up all your chunks, especially in heavily fished areas.
If you’re only attracting smaller fish, it’s a good idea to move to another location. You might need to try a couple of spots before you find the ideal one.
You can also combine the fresh chunking method with a frozen chum block to maximize your chum supply.
Fishing for Mangrove Snapper in Open Water
Regardless of the type of chum you’re using, it’s wise to allow some time for the chum to disperse and for the snapper to gather before you cast a baited hook. This helps establish a good number of fish before any unexpected movements might scare them off.
Depending on your fishing location in Florida, the bait ball you create may also attract other species. It’s always a smart move to have a heavier rod on standby, just in case a cobia or another delicious surprise decides to crash the party.
Bait for Mangrove Snapper
If you’re chumming with chunks, it’s best to use those same chunks for bait. Bury your hook into a chunk while keeping the point and barb exposed to maximize your chances of catching fish.
When you throw in a handful of free chunks, cast your hooked chunk into the same area and allow it to drift naturally amidst the unhooked chunks. When the snapper are energetic and responding to the chum, this method can lead to quick hookups.
Don’t have fresh dead or live bait? No problem—mangrove snapper are not picky eaters. They will bite on various baits, including squid, shrimp (though small snapper tend to snag this quickly), or chunks of cut bait.
Rigs for Mangrove Snapper
Light spinning gear is the way to go when fishing for mangrove snapper. A popular choice is the AL13 Spinning Reel, spooled with 10-pound braid and paired with a medium-light 7’4” Fate S+ Saltwater Spinning Rod—it’s a versatile setup for all sorts of inshore fishing.
When targeting mangrove snapper, you should use a fluorocarbon leader. A 20-pound leader works well as it provides both abrasion resistance (essential for tackling large snapper around structures) and decreased visibility, which is crucial in clear, shallow water.
The clearer the water and the heavier the fishing pressure in your area, the longer leader you should opt for. As a general guideline, leaders around 3 to 6 feet long are effective.
In terms of hooks, you want something light and sharp. Some anglers swear by circle hooks, while others prefer J hooks, with 1/0 being an excellently sized choice. Light wire is key, allowing your baits to drift naturally and remain inconspicuous to cautious snapper.
If you’re fishing in deeper spots, jig heads can be beneficial in getting your bait down to larger fish that may be lurking below. The appropriate weight for the jig head (1/16, 1/8, etc.) depends on variables such as wind, current, and depth. Simply tip the jig head with squid, shrimp, or a whole pilchard, and you’re set. You’re also welcome to use soft plastics attached to a jig head!
Catching Mangrove Snapper Near Land
One of the most successful tactics for targeting mangrove snapper that are close to shore is live chumming. Mastering this method requires proficiency with a large cast net.
To effectively live chum, stock your live well with pilchards, ideally in the 2.5-3 inch range, which tend to be most effective. This strategy shines around mangrove islands, at the ends of channels emptying into flats, and even near docks.
Position your boat within easy casting distance of your targeted structure. The process mirrors other forms of chumming, except you’ll use live bait rather than frozen or fresh cuts.
Scoop up 6 to 8 pilchards in your bait net and throw them near your chosen spot. If possible, leave them out of water for a bit (a gentle squeeze works) before tossing them in; this will weaken them, making them more appealing to the snapper.
If your location is promising, you’ll soon see snapper actively feeding on the bait you’ve tossed in. Now it’s time to take another pilchard, thread your hook through the bridge of its nose, and cast it into the action. You should use the same rig—light wire hook with a fluorocarbon leader. Since you’re near structure, be prepared to reel in any large mangrove snapper that takes the bait.
FAQ
What is the best bait for mangrove snappers?
Mangrove snapper are opportunistic eaters and will go for a range of baits. However, it’s often hard to beat a live or freshly dead pilchard when aiming for these fish.
What is the best time to catch mangrove snapper?
You can successfully catch mangrove snapper during various tidal conditions. That being said, if the tide is really strong, it might be challenging to keep your chum moving or your bait in place. When fishing around structures near land, high tide often proves to be optimal due to increased water levels in the area.
Where is the best place to catch mangrove snapper?
You can find mangrove snapper around mangrove islands, docks, and numerous structures. The best spot will depend on your fishing style. If you enjoy drifting chunks towards eager schools, try chumming on bridges or around open water structures. If casting live baits to larger fish is more your style, consider live chumming near mangrove islands.
Is there a size limit on mangrove snapper in Florida?
The minimum size limit for mangrove snapper in Florida is 10 inches, with a bag limit of five per person per day, or ten total for overnight trips.